Nissan and unions reach deal over firm's intention to lay off 600 workers

After weeks of talks, Nissan and unions have finally reached a deal over the automobile manufacturer's intention to lay off 600 workers in Catalonia.

Company and workers' representatives signed the deal on Thursday, which includes 450 early retirements, 50 voluntary redundancies and 100 layoffs as part of a restructuring plan.

The workers taking early retirement will be guaranteed 85% of their net salary, with an extra 5% until they are 63, thus complying with union demands that they get 90% of their wage.

The period for accepting voluntary redundancies will go on until March 2020, with those taking this option entitled to compensation payments of up to 50,000 euros.

The firm will also provide a written pledge to invest 70 million euros in opening a new paint plant in its factory in Barcelona's Zona Franca industrial estate.  

The deal will now be put before the workers for final approval at an assembly on Friday, and at union headquarters on Saturday.  

The understanding between Nissan and the unions comes on the opening day of the Automobile Barcelona motor show, which disgruntled workers had threatened to picket.